The highlight of my count at McGulpin a few days ago was a migrating group of Great Egret, an uncommon breeding species in northern Michigan. Great Blue Heron, the most common heron species, have been observed more frequently the past few days. Despite the miserable weather today, I was happy to be greeted by a pair of Green-winged Teal! Instantly recognized by their unique and chaotic flock structure, teal are among the smallest species of duck.
Common Loon and Long-tailed Duck numbers have been below average at this point in the season. However, poor viewing conditions (fog, cloud cover, etc.) likely play a large role in this. I would expect this will change in the coming days!
